Veterinary inspectors investigating a major outbreak of brucellosis in herds in Co Cavan are concentrating on a feedlot in the county.
Seven herds were being fed at the so called "bed and breakfast" operation, where the outbreak occurred, and all these animals had to be destroyed. Farmers operating these units contract to feed herds for a fee for other farmers.
Five adjoining herds have also been destroyed or partially destroyed, and a further 13 herds have been restricted. Two herds have been restricted in Longford.
The Department's Special Investigation Unit is also involved in tracing the source of the infection.
Brucellosis is a highly infectious disease which causes abortion in cows. Ireland has brucellosis-free status because of the low incidence of the disease in the national herd.